NetTag

The second day of our event was dedicated to showcasing the NETTAG+ solutions in action—from technology at sea to tools for awareness, training, and policy impact 🌊⚙️

Despite high waves forcing us to remain within the port, the demonstration delivered real results. The MyGearTag system successfully detected the location of a lost fishing trap, and IRIS was deployed to support its retrieval.
High waves and extreme sea conditions are among the main reasons fishing gear gets lost. Recovering it as quickly as possible is essential to reduce the risk of wildlife entanglement and the release of microplastics and other pollutants into the marine environment.

Beyond the field demonstration, the day also highlighted the full NETTAG+ approach:

🎮 Videogames and VR scenarios to raise awareness and support training
🕶️ Immersive VR experiences to better understand ghost gear impacts
📘 Good Practices Handbook and practical materials developed with and for fishers
📄 Policy briefs translating field experience into concrete recommendations for decision‑makers.

Technology, education, and policy working together—because tackling ghost gear requires solutions at every level.

+

This morning, we had the great opportunity to present the results of the NETTAG+ project to the Portuguese Secretary of State for Fisheries and the Sea Salvador Malheiro at Associação Pró-Maior Segurança dos Homens do Mar.

We discussed how to build on the project's achievements and continue advancing solutions to tackle marine litter from fisheries. A key topic was the importance of involving fishers from the very beginning, recognising their knowledge, experience and essential role in preventing and reducing marine litter.

+
Ciimar INESC TEC Missionoceanwaters EU Maritime & Fish